Knowledge is power
Solar Basics
One of our pros will answer your questions
How does solar work?
Solar energy is tricky business – but you have the best team on your side to get everything just right. Explore the image here to understand the role that each piece plays.
Solar Panels turn sunlight to DC energy
An electrical field is created when sunlight hits the solar panels. The product is direct current (DC) electricity which is not used by most homes and appliances.
Micro-inverters convert DC to AC
Electricity flows to the micro inverters that are installed on the roof under the solar panels. Here the DC (direct current) electricity is converted to AC (alternating current) that homes and business use.
Enphase Envoy sends energy to your home or the grid
The envoy box decides when to send power to your home to power your lights and gadgets. If there is on demand for energy it will be sent to the grid and credited to your utility account.
Electrical meter records energy moving to and from the grid
The AC electricity travels through the meter to the electricpanel (or breaker box), which delivers electricity throughout your home.
Use what you need, send the rest to the grid
Power your home with clean solar energy as it is produced. Any unused electricity will flow back through your meter, creating a credit on your utility bill. During low production times you will still have power coming in from the grid.
What is Net Metering?
Net metering allows homeowners to earn credits on their utility bills when their solar panels produce more electricity than they use, causing the utility meter to run backward during the day. These credits can offset electricity costs at night or when solar production is low.
$100
Energy Usage
Minus
$80
Energy Produced
Equals
$20
Amount Owed
$100
Energy Usage
Minus
$80
Energy Produced
Equals
$20
Amount Owed
4 Most Important Factors
when choosing a solar installer
Questions to ask to make sure your installer is using the best equipment for your job:
Are the panels Tier 1? Are they a premiere module?
Ensure that the models that are being recommended to you are at least Tier 1, even better if they are a premiere module from a reputable manufacturer.
What is the expected lifespan and warranty for the solar panels and inverters?
Warranties provide insight into the reliability of the equipment. Look for a 25-year warranty on panels and a 10-12 year warranty for inverters to ensure long-term value.
What is the efficiency rating of the solar panels?
Higher efficiency panels generate more electricity with less space. Knowing the efficiency rating will help you determine whether you're getting the best balance of cost and energy output for your system.
Questions to ask to make sure you're getting the best price for your solar system:
What is the cost per watt ($/W) for the system?
This is one of the most important metrics to compare quotes. The cost per watt helps you gauge the overall value, as it accounts for both the system size and total price.
Are there any additional or hidden costs, such as installation fees, permits, or ongoing maintenance?
This question ensures transparency and helps you avoid surprises. Make sure the quote includes all costs, so you have a clear understanding of the total investment.
How do the costs compare between different panel brands or inverter options?
Understanding the price differences between equipment options allows you to weigh the benefits of more expensive, high-efficiency panels versus budget options.
Are there any available incentives, rebates, or financing options that could reduce the upfront cost?
Asking about incentives, such as tax credits or rebates, and financing options can significantly impact your overall investment and help lower the cost of your system.
The warranty on your system is a key factor that shouldn't be over looked:
What is the duration of the warranty; what is covered by the warranty?
Ensure that the warranty lasts for at least 30 years, which is becoming the industry standard for high-quality systems. Panels should be covered for performance and product defects, while inverters should have a warranty of at least 10-12 years, with options to extend.
What is the guaranteed performance degradation rate over the warranty period?
Ask how much the panels' efficiency is expected to decline over time. A good warranty should guarantee that panels will still produce 80-85% of their original output after 25-30 years.
Does the warranty include labor and shipping costs for repairs or replacements?
Some warranties cover parts but not labor, which could leave you with significant out-of-pocket costs. Make sure the warranty covers both to avoid unexpected expenses.
Is the warranty transferable if I sell my home, and are there any conditions or fees involved?
A transferable warranty can add value to your property if you plan to sell. Be sure to ask if there are any restrictions or fees involved in transferring the warranty to a new owner.
The company you choose to hire is one of the most important decisions:
Are your installers licensed, certified, and insured?
Ensure the company has certified installers (such as NABCEP certification) and is fully insured. This provides confidence that the installers are skilled and that you’re protected in case of any accidents or issues during installation.
What do Google, BBB and other review sites say about the company - what do they not do well?
View the company's reviews on online sites like BBB, Google, Energy Sage, Solar Reviews and more. Keep an eye out for common issues that customers have had with the company 2-4 star reviews can tell you a lot about where a company falls short.
Does your company use in-house installers, or do you subcontract the installation work?
If subcontractors are used, ask about their qualifications and whether they meet the same standards as the company’s own employees. It’s important to ensure consistency in quality and accountability.
Check out these
Inverter Options
An inverter in a solar panel system is a translator box that takes the DC electricity from your solar panels and turns it into usable, AC electricity for your home, so you can power your lights, appliances, and gadgets. It basically converts the sun’s energy into something your home can understand and use.
Micro-Inverters
Inverters under each panel.
Central Inverter
One main inverter that all panels connect to
Things to Consider
when building your solar system
Want to be Self Sufficient?
Energy Storage
Batteries are a common addition to a solar array to store energy to be used when your system is not producing power.
Recent EV Purchase
EV Charger
We can install an EV charger for your new electric vehicle.
Electrical Panel Full
Panel Upgrade
Sometimes older homes will not have space in the panel and an upgraded panel can be a great option.
Interested in your energy usage?
Consumption Monitoring
Use your monitoring app to see your energy production and usage in real time.
You can pay your way
Payment Choices
MNCEE
Through the Minnesota Housing and Finance Agency (MHFA) and the Minnesota Department of Commerce, CEE offers home energy loans for Minnesota homeowners to make energy improvements in their homes.
Pay in Cash
If you do not need financing services, paying for your solar investment in cash is always an option.
HELOC | Personal Loan | Mortgage
Choice Loans*
There are financing options available for homeowners who need assistance paying for their solar investment.
Sungage Financial | Mosaic
*Requires tax credit to keep payment lower
Rapid Response Guarantee
At Centauri Systems, we stand apart with our unbeatable guarantee: a response to every message within 24 hours. This commitment reflects our dedication to exceptional service and our belief that you deserve timely, reliable support. Choose Centauri Systems, where you're never left in the dark.
